It’s officially berry season on the Central Coast, and with it comes one of Northern California’s most beloved summer fruits: olallieberries. This bumpy, deep-purple berry may look rugged, but its sweet-tart flavor has earned it a cult-like following among berry lovers. A member of the blackberry family, the olallieberry is prized for its complex flavor...Read More
Nothing says summer quite like a bowl of homemade blueberry ice cream. Bursting with the naturally sweet and tangy flavor of fresh blueberries, this ice cream is as refreshing as it is indulgent. The creamy base balances the fruit’s brightness, creating a luscious dessert that feels both vibrant and decadent. With just a handful of...Read More
This vibrant couscous salad combines sweet and savory flavors for a refreshing side dish that works beautifully year-round. Tender pearl couscous is tossed with chewy dried apricots, fresh mint, and crunchy pistachios, then finished with a light golden balsamic dressing. The result is a salad that’s slightly sweet, tangy, and nutty—perfect alongside grilled chicken, lamb,...Read More
These Buttery Apricot Crumble Bars are a sunny twist on classic shortbread—perfect for summer gatherings, picnics, or an afternoon treat with tea. Dried sweet-tart apricots are slowly simmered into a fragrant filling, then layered between buttery shortbread and finished with a golden crumble topping. The result is a bar that’s rich yet refreshing, with a...Read More
Discover the satisfaction of creating your very own homemade hot sauce — it may even tempt you to ditch store-bought options! The possibilities are nearly endless for various combinations of hot chilies and seasonings to concoct your perfect blend. You can use all of one kind of pepper or chili or use a combination. The...Read More
This make-ahead French toast is a comforting breakfast classic with a practical twist. Perfect for busy mornings, holidays, or brunch gatherings, you can prepare it the night before and simply bake it in the morning. The result is golden, custardy French toast with minimal fuss—just add your favorite toppings and enjoy. INGREDIENTS: 1 loaf day-old...Read More
Homemade pickled jalapeños are a quick and easy way to add vibrant flavor and gentle heat to everyday meals. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a crisp, tangy condiment that balances sweet, spicy, and savory notes. These peppers are delicious tucked into tacos, layered onto burgers, stirred into salads, or served...Read More
Refrigerator sweet pickles are a simple, no-canning way to capture the crisp freshness of cucumbers. With just a quick simmered brine and a few pantry spices, you can transform your summer harvest into a tangy-sweet condiment that’s ready to enjoy within hours. These crunchy pickles add a bright pop of flavor to sandwiches, burgers, salads,...Read More
If you crave pickles with that perfect crunch and tang, this recipe delivers. By using the low-temperature pasteurization method, you’ll lock in the cucumbers’ crisp texture while ensuring food safety. This gentle technique, held between 180°F and 185°F, eliminates harmful bacteria without overcooking, giving you pickles that stay snappy, flavorful, and vibrant. With fresh dill,...Read More
This bright and flavorful chicken salad brings a touch of the tropics to the table. Tender chicken is tossed with juicy pineapple, crisp celery, and crunchy water chestnuts, then dressed in a creamy curry-honey sauce. Perfect for a spring luncheon, bridal shower, or afternoon tea, it looks especially pretty served in a butter lettuce “leaf...Read More
